March Newsletters
March Newsletters
Embedded Files
Week of March 9
Upcoming Dates:
March 9: Pajama Day
March 9-12: Book Fair📚
March 10: PTO Meeting (6pm)
March 11-12: Student Led Conferences
March 16-20: Spring Break
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker:
Mrs. Trujillo:
Ms. Youngberg:
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lessons 82 & 83
Lesson 82- spelling pattern is er, ir, ur, w+or spell /er/ . Examples are fern, urge, third, and work.
Lesson 83- spelling pattern is r controlled vowels review. Examples are star, north, more, serve, turn, third, and work.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 7- Past, Present, and Future
In this unit students will learn how the world is changing every minute. People change over time. Ideas and daily life change, too. Technology that is new today may seem old in the future. We study the past to find out how things change. Essential question: Why is the past important?
Math:
Ready Math: We will work to finish lesson 18 and take the quiz before spring break.
Lesson 18: In lesson 18, students will be able to add and subtract tens. Students will be able to add tens to any two digit number.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: March - Principled
Students (& Adults) who are Principled have a sense of fairness and are honest with themselves and with others. They understand that sometimes there are rules and they must follow them. They have integrity, honesty, a sense of justice, and an understanding of moral reasoning.
How can parents help to develop students who are Principled at home?
Involve your child in deciding on the rules for a game or activity and then ensure that they stick to the ones that have been decided upon.
Encourage your child to play games that involve teams. Discuss with your child the qualities of a team player. What sort of person would they want on their team?
When your child wins a game, insist that he or she is a well-mannered winner. They might thank their opponent or shake hands with them if it’s appropriate.
When playing a game, don’t change the rules or let your child win. Being a gracious loser is just as important as being a good winner.
acting with integrity and honesty
having a strong sense of fairness and justice
respecting the dignity and rights of all people
taking responsibility for actions and consequences
showing gratitude and not taking things for granted
showing patience and self-discipline
considering the big picture when making decisions
26 Picture Books about Integrity and Principles
Week of March 2
Upcoming Dates:
March 9: Pajama Day
March 9-12: Book Fair📚
March 10: PTO Meeting (6pm)
March 11-12: Student Led Conferences
March 16-20: Spring Break
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lesson 80 & 81
Lesson 80- spelling pattern is er . Examples are fern, serve, letter, and number.
Lesson 81- spelling pattern is ir and ur spell /er/ . Examples are turn, urge, bird, and third.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: We will work on the Unit 6 Assessment before beginning Unit 7.
Unit 7- Past, Present, and Future
In this unit students will learn how the world is changing every minute. People change over time. Ideas and daily life change, too. Technology that is new today may seem old in the future. We study the past to find out how things change. Essential question: Why is the past important?
Math:
Ready Math: First graders will finish Lesson 17 at the beginning of the week and take the quiz. This will finish our Unit 4 of math and we will work through the Unit 4 Assessment before beginning Lesson 18.
Lesson 18: In lesson 18, students will be able to add and subtract tens. Students will be able to add tens to any two digit number.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: March - Principled
Students (& Adults) who are Principled have a sense of fairness and are honest with themselves and with others. They understand that sometimes there are rules and they must follow them. They have integrity, honesty, a sense of justice, and an understanding of moral reasoning.
How can parents help to develop students who are Principled at home?
Involve your child in deciding on the rules for a game or activity and then ensure that they stick to the ones that have been decided upon.
Encourage your child to play games that involve teams. Discuss with your child the qualities of a team player. What sort of person would they want on their team?
When your child wins a game, insist that he or she is a well-mannered winner. They might thank their opponent or shake hands with them if it’s appropriate.
When playing a game, don’t change the rules or let your child win. Being a gracious loser is just as important as being a good winner.
acting with integrity and honesty
having a strong sense of fairness and justice
respecting the dignity and rights of all people
taking responsibility for actions and consequences
showing gratitude and not taking things for granted
showing patience and self-discipline
considering the big picture when making decisions
26 Picture Books about Integrity and Principles
February Newsletters
February Newsletters
Week of February 22
Upcoming Dates:
February 24-26: Silent Auction
February 24: Chili Cook Off 🌶️ (6-7pm)
February 26: Colorado Map Activity (9:30-11:00)
February 27: Reading Log Due
March 9-12: Book Fair📚
March 11-12: Student Led Conferences (more details to come from your students teacher)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lessons 77 & 78-
Lesson 77- spelling pattern is ar /ar/. Examples are star, marble, large, and far.
Lesson 78- spelling pattern is or, ore /or/. Examples are north, for, sport, and more.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 6- Stories that Teach Many Lessons
In this unit, we will learn about the lessons that we can learn from stories. A lesson is a message the author wants us to think about. We can use the messages from stories to help us think about how we should act in our real lives. Essential question: What can we learn from a mistake?
Math:
Ready Math: We will take the Lesson 16 quiz at the beginning of the week and then begin Lesson 17.
Lesson 17: In lesson 17, students will be learning how to compare two-digit numbers using tens and ones. They will be using > (greater than), < (less than), and = (equal to) signs to compare two numbers.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: February - Open-Minded
An Open-Minded person knows that all people are different. They listen to the points of view of others and consider many possibilities before making a decision. They celebrate the differences that make all people unique.
"Open-minded students respect the views, values, and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view."
How can parents help to develop this Open-Minded trait at home?
Encourage your child to try new things – new foods, new games, and new activities.
Expose your child to different festivals, celebrations, and traditions, and be sure to present them in a non-judgmental way.
Encourage your child to listen to others when they speak.
Introduce literature about many different cultures into your home library. Be sure that it is appropriate and reflects the culture appropriately.
When you observe your child being Open-Minded, reinforce this positive behavior and use the PYP learner profile terminology.
Developing open-mindedness in children isn’t really that difficult since they are actually pretty loving and accepting of others around the world.
Opening their minds to the myriad differences surrounding them is essential to developing an even greater sense of global awareness and international mindedness in a young person who is going to become our future.
Keeping an open mind can also tie in with being a risk-taker and trying new experiences. These books help to promote the attitude of acceptance and tolerance as well as inspire a need for change.
Open-Minded Books to Support Student Learning (LINK)
Week of February 16
Upcoming Dates:
February 16: Presidents Day (No School)
February 27: Chili Cook-Off 🌶️ (5:30-7pm)
February 28: Reading Log Due
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics Lessons 75 and 76
Lesson 75- spelling pattern is -le at the end of words. Examples are puddle, simple, handle, and table.
Lesson 76- spelling pattern is endings pattern review. The endings we will review are VCC (-ild, -old, -ind, -olt, -ost), y spells long /i/, y spells long /e/, and cLE. Please see Lesson 72-Lesson 75 for examples of words that follow the rules.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 6- Stories that Teach Many Lessons
In this unit, we will learn about the lessons that we can learn from stories. A lesson is a message the author wants us to think about. We can use the messages from stories to help us think about how we should act in our real lives. Essential question: What can we learn from a mistake?
Math:
Ready Math:
Lesson 16: Students will continue learning about place value. They will recognize that the value of a digit in a two-digit number is connected to the number of tens and ones in the number. They will explore patterns in digits when numbers are organized into rows and columns of a 120 chart. Students will also understand that 10 more or 10 less than a number results in a change in the tens digit, but the ones digit remains the same.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: February-Open Minded
An Open-Minded person knows that all people are different. They listen to the points of view of others and consider many possibilities before making a decision. They celebrate the differences that make all people unique.
"Open-minded students respect the views, values, and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view."
How can parents help to develop this Open-Minded trait at home?
Encourage your child to try new things – new foods, new games, and new activities.
Expose your child to different festivals, celebrations, and traditions, and be sure to present them in a non-judgmental way.
Encourage your child to listen to others when they speak.
Introduce literature about many different cultures into your home library. Be sure that it is appropriate and reflects the culture appropriately.
When you observe your child being Open-Minded, reinforce this positive behavior and use the PYP learner profile terminology.
Developing open-mindedness in children isn’t really that difficult since they are actually pretty loving and accepting of others around the world.
Opening their minds to the myriad differences surrounding them is essential to developing an even greater sense of global awareness and international mindedness in a young person who is going to become our future.
Keeping an open mind can also tie in with being a risk-taker and trying new experiences. These books help to promote the attitude of acceptance and tolerance as well as inspire a need for change.
Open-Minded Books to Support Student Learning (LINK)
Week of February 9
Upcoming Dates:
February 10: PTO Meeting (6pm in library)
February 12: Friendship Celebration💗 (information from your child's teacher)
February 13: No School (PD Day)
February 16: Presidents Day (No School)
February 27: Chili Cook-Off 🌶️ (5:30-7pm)
February 28: Reading Log Due
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lessons 73 & 74
Lesson 73- spelling pattern is y spells long /i/ at the end of words. Examples are sky, my, try, and sly.
Lesson 74- spelling pattern is y spells long /e/ at the end of words. Examples are party, puppy, baby, and sunny.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 6- Stories that Teach Many Lessons
In this unit, we will learn about the lessons that we can learn from stories. A lesson is a message the author wants us to think about. We can use the messages from stories to help us think about how we should act in our real lives. Essential question: What can we learn from a mistake?
Math:
Ready Math:
In Lesson 15: Students will learn that two-digit numbers are made up of tens and ones. They will represent two-digit numbers using objects and numbers. Students will learn about place value and will begin to recognize that the value of a digit in a two-digit number is connected to the number of tens and ones in the number. They will explore patterns in digits when numbers are organized into rows and columns of a 100 chart.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: February-Open Minded
An Open-Minded person knows that all people are different. They listen to the points of view of others and consider many possibilities before making a decision. They celebrate the differences that make all people unique.
"Open-minded students respect the views, values, and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view."
How can parents help to develop this Open-Minded trait at home?
Encourage your child to try new things – new foods, new games, and new activities.
Expose your child to different festivals, celebrations, and traditions, and be sure to present them in a non-judgmental way.
Encourage your child to listen to others when they speak.
Introduce literature about many different cultures into your home library. Be sure that it is appropriate and reflects the culture appropriately.
When you observe your child being Open-Minded, reinforce this positive behavior and use the PYP learner profile terminology.
Developing open-mindedness in children isn’t really that difficult since they are actually pretty loving and accepting of others around the world.
Opening their minds to the myriad differences surrounding them is essential to developing an even greater sense of global awareness and international mindedness in a young person who is going to become our future.
Keeping an open mind can also tie in with being a risk-taker and trying new experiences. These books help to promote the attitude of acceptance and tolerance as well as inspire a need for change.
Open-Minded Books to Support Student Learning (LINK)
Week of February 1
Upcoming Dates:
February 2-6: Wish Week
Monday: Future Career Day Dress UpUp🥼🦺👮🏻
Tuesday: Music Genre Dress Up 🎶🤠🎸
Wednesday: Twin/Squad Day Dress Up 👯
Thursday: Green Day (wear green) 💚
Friday: Disney Day Dress Up 🚀👑🐭
February 10: PTO Meeting (6pm in library)
February 12: Friendship Celebration💗 (information from your child's teacher)
February 13: No School (PD Day)
February 16: Presidents Day (No School)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics- Lessons 70 & 72 (first grade does not do Lesson 71):
Lesson 70- spelling pattern is -dge at the end of words. Examples are dodge, fudge, and edge.
Lesson 72- spelling pattern is VCC at the end of words (-ild, -old, -ind, -olt, -ost). Examples are wild, cold, find, bolt, and post.
Benchmark Readers Workshop:
Unit 5- Technology at Work
We will complete the Unit 5 Benchmark Assessment at the beginning of this week and then begin Unit 6.
Unit 6- Stories that Teach Many Lessons
In this unit, we will learn about the lessons that we can learn from stories. A lesson is a message the author wants us to think about. We can use the messages from stories to help us think about how we should act in our real lives. Essential question: What can we learn from a mistake?
Math:
Ready Math:
Lesson 14: Students will complete the quiz for this lesson at the beginning of the week and then students will complete the Unit 3 assessment before beginning the next lesson.
In Lesson 15: Students will learn that two-digit numbers are made up of tens and ones. They will represent two-digit numbers using objects and numbers. Students will learn about place value and will begin to recognize that the value of a digit in a two-digit number is connected to the number of tens and ones in the number. They will explore patterns in digits when numbers are organized into rows and columns of a 100 chart.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: February-Open Minded
An Open-Minded person knows that all people are different. They listen to the points of view of others and consider many possibilities before making a decision. They celebrate the differences that make all people unique.
"Open-minded students respect the views, values, and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view."
How can parents help to develop this Open-Minded trait at home?
Encourage your child to try new things – new foods, new games, and new activities.
Expose your child to different festivals, celebrations, and traditions, and be sure to present them in a non-judgmental way.
Encourage your child to listen to others when they speak.
Introduce literature about many different cultures into your home library. Be sure that it is appropriate and reflects the culture appropriately.
When you observe your child being Open-Minded, reinforce this positive behavior and use the PYP learner profile terminology.
Developing open-mindedness in children isn’t really that difficult since they are actually pretty loving and accepting of others around the world.
Opening their minds to the myriad differences surrounding them is essential to developing an even greater sense of global awareness and international mindedness in a young person who is going to become our future.
Keeping an open mind can also tie in with being a risk-taker and trying new experiences. These books help to promote the attitude of acceptance and tolerance as well as inspire a need for change.
Open-Minded Books to Support Student Learning (LINK)
January Newsletters
January Newsletters
Week of January 26
Upcoming Dates:
February 10: PTO Meeting (6pm in library)
February 12: Friendship CelebrationCelebration💗
February 13: No School (PD Day)
February 16: Presidents Day (No School)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 68 & 69:
Lesson 68- spelling pattern is words that have both open/closed syllables. Examples are basic (ba-sic), secret (se-cret), and begin (be-gin).
Lesson 69- spelling pattern is -tch /ch/ at the end of words. Examples are watch, ditch, and fetch.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 5- Technology at Work
In this unit, we will read three books about how people use technology at work. In Working with Technology, we will read about some jobs and the technology people use to do the job. Later we will read How to Make a Pulley and learn how one machine helps people do their jobs. As we read, think about how each machine or tool solves a problem on the job. Essential question: What technology do you use to make your day at school easier?
Math:
Ready Math:
Lesson 14: Students will learn about True and False Equations. The equal sign (=) is a symbol that means the same as. For an equation to be true, or correct both sides of the equal sign must be the same. If they are not the same the answer is false.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: January - Knowledgeable
Be on the lookout this month for IB learners who strive to be knowledgeable.
These students explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
How can parents help to develop students who are Knowledgeable at home?
Encourage your child to read books at home that correspond with the topics being covered in school. In particular, books in their mother tongue will help your child make more meaningful, lasting connections to what is being taught in their classroom in English.
Ask your child about what they are learning in school and engage them in conversations about it:
“Why do you think that is an important thing to know about?”
“Can you think of anything happening in the world today that might be similar to that aspect of History?”
“You’re learning about pulleys and gears at school? This reminds me of your simple machines unit in grade 2… have you noticed any similarities? How is what you’re learning different?”
Foster any area that your child expresses an interest in with books and activities, but also be sure to encourage them to explore other areas.
Encourage your child to become familiar with current events and to read the newspaper and watch the news when appropriate.
Knowledgeable Books to Support Student-Led Learning
Week of January 19
Upcoming Dates:
January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day (No School)
February 12: Friendship Celebration (2:45-3:20)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 66 & 67b
Lesson 66- spelling pattern is open and closed syllables. A syllable is a word or part of a word with one vowel sound. Examples of open syllables are go, me, and hi. Examples of open syllables are got, met, and hip.
Lesson 67b- spelling pattern is closed/closed syllable words. A syllable is a word or part of a word with one vowel sound. Examples are dentist, children, and chicken.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 5- Technology at Work
In this unit, we will read three books about how people use technology at work. In Working with Technology, we will read about some jobs and the technology people use to do the job. Later we will read How to Make a Pulley and learn how one machine helps people do their jobs. As we read, think about how each machine or tool solves a problem on the job. Essential question: What technology do you use to make your day at school easier?
Math:
Ready Math: We will complete lesson 13 at the beginning of the week and begin lesson 14 afterwards.
Lesson 14: Students will learn about True and False Equations. The equal sign (=) is a symbol that means the same as. For an equation to be true, or correct both sides of the equal sign must be the same. If they are not the same the answer is false. Example of a true equation is 5+3 = 4+4
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: January - Knowledgeable
Be on the lookout this month for IB learners who strive to be knowledgeable.
These students explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
How can parents help to develop students who are Knowledgeable at home?
Encourage your child to read books at home that correspond with the topics being covered in school. In particular, books in their mother tongue will help your child make more meaningful, lasting connections to what is being taught in their classroom in English.
Ask your child about what they are learning in school and engage them in conversations about it:
“Why do you think that is an important thing to know about?”
“Can you think of anything happening in the world today that might be similar to that aspect of History?”
“You’re learning about pulleys and gears at school? This reminds me of your simple machines unit in grade 2… have you noticed any similarities? How is what you’re learning different?”
Foster any area that your child expresses an interest in with books and activities, but also be sure to encourage them to explore other areas.
Encourage your child to become familiar with current events and to read the newspaper and watch the news when appropriate.
Knowledgeable Books to Support Student-Led Learning
Week of January 12
Upcoming Dates:
January 12: Christmas Around the World Items are due (see your teacher’s email for sign up link)
January 13: PTO Meeting (6-7pm in library)
January 16: Tradition Boxes are due (see your teacher’s email for information)
January 19: No School- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently.
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Tradition Box due January 16, (see your teacher’s email for information)
Literacy:
UFLI Lesson 64 & 65: In Lesson 64, adding -ed to the end of verbs to make them past tense. Examples are: walked, wanted, looked, and yelled. In Lesson 65, adding -ing to the end of verbs. Examples are washing, talking, being, and pulling.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: In Unit 5, we will read three books about how people use technology at work. In Working with Technology, we will read about some jobs and the technology people use to do the job. Later we will read How to Make a Pulley and learn how one machine helps people do their jobs. As we read, think about how each machine or tool solves a problem on the job. What technology do you use to make your day at school easier?
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 12/13: We will finish lesson 12 and take the quiz at the beginning of the week. Afterwards we will begin lesson 13, where students will learn to collect, sort and compare data.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: January - Knowledgeable
Be on the lookout this month for IB learners who strive to be KNOWLEDGEABLE.
These students explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
How can parents help to develop students who are Knowledgeable at home?
Encourage your child to read books at home that correspond with the topics being covered in school. In particular, books in their mother tongue will help your child make more meaningful, lasting connections to what is being taught in their classroom in English.
Ask your child about what they are learning in school and engage them in conversations about it:
“Why do you think that is an important thing to know about?”
“Can you think of anything happening in the world today that might be similar to that aspect of History?”
“You’re learning about pulleys and gears at school? This reminds me of your simple machines unit in grade 2… have you noticed any similarities? How is what you’re learning different?”
Foster any area that your child expresses an interest in with books and activities, but also be sure to encourage them to explore other areas.
Encourage your child to become familiar with current events and to read the newspaper and watch the news when appropriate.
Knowledgeable Books to Support Student-Led Learning
Week of January 5
Upcoming Dates:
January 5: Teacher Work Day (no students)
January 6: Students return to school
January 12: Christmas Around the World Items are due (see your teacher’s email for sign up link)
January 13: PTO Meeting (6-7pm in library)
January 16: Tradition Boxes are due (see your teacher’s email for information)
January 19: No School- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
Tradition Box due January 16, (see your teacher’s email for information)
Literacy:
UFLI Lesson 62 & 63: In Lesson 62, silent e exceptions. Examples are: give, live, love, some, and done.
In Lesson 63, adding -es to make plural words ending in -ch, -sh, s, x, and z. Examples are dishes, boxes, lunches, and brushes.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: In Unit 5, we will read three books about how people use technology at work. In Working with Technology, we will read about some jobs and the technology people use to do the job. Later we will read How to Make a Pulley and learn how one machine helps people do their jobs. As we read, think about how each machine or tool solves a problem on the job. What technology do you use to make your day at school easier?
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 12: In Lesson 12, we will learn to solve word problems that compare two groups. Students will find the difference between two groups to tell how many more or how many fewer objects one group has than another.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: January - Knowledgeable
Be on the lookout this month for IB learners who strive to be KNOWLEDGEABLE.
These students explore concepts, ideas, and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
How can parents help to develop students who are Knowledgeable at home?
Encourage your child to read books at home that correspond with the topics being covered in school. In particular, books in their mother tongue will help your child make more meaningful, lasting connections to what is being taught in their classroom in English.
Ask your child about what they are learning in school and engage them in conversations about it:
“Why do you think that is an important thing to know about?”
“Can you think of anything happening in the world today that might be similar to that aspect of History?”
“You’re learning about pulleys and gears at school? This reminds me of your simple machines unit in grade 2… have you noticed any similarities? How is what you’re learning different?”
Foster any area that your child expresses an interest in with books and activities, but also be sure to encourage them to explore other areas.
Encourage your child to become familiar with current events and to read the newspaper and watch the news when appropriate.
December Newsletters
December Newsletters
Week of December 14
Upcoming Dates:
December 2-17: I-Ready Diagnostic Window no iReady at home during this time
December 15-18: Spirit Week/Candy Cane Grams for sale
Monday 12/15- Matching Day
Tuesday 12/13- Crazy Hair Day
Wednesday 12/14-Color Day (first grade wears Orange)
Thursday 12/15- Festive Gear Day
December 18: How We Express Ourselves Rotations (AM)
December 18: Winter Party (PM) (information from your teacher)
December 19-January 6: Winter Break
iReady Mid-Year Diagnostic Testing:
Continuing this week is our mid-year iReady diagnostic testing for Reading and Math. It is crucial that each student does his or her best on the test. During this time, please ensure that your child is well rested and on time for school. We are goal setting with each student so each student is aware of their Stretch Growth Goal.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
December Reading Log: Due December 18
Literacy:
UFLI Lesson 60 & 61: We will be reviewing Lesson 60 where students were taught the spelling pattern for the soft c sound /s/ _ce. Examples are: mice, price, race, and lace. In Lesson 61 students will be taught the soft g sound /j/ _ge. Examples are: change, huge, strange, and change.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: We completed Unit 4 last week and will begin Unit 5 after winter break.
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 11: In Lesson 11 students will learn to understand and solve addition and subtraction word problems up to 20.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: December - Inquirer
“We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry, and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.”
These students develop their natural curiosity.
They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning.
They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
How can parents help to develop students who are Inquirers at home?
Encourage areas of your child’s interest by visiting the library to borrow books that explore these topics.
Develop an understanding of the Internet. Work with your son or daughter when the Internet is being used and try to instill the understanding that some Internet sites are not reputable.
Model being an inquirer. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a problem or a question and seek out answers in front of your child.
December 7
Upcoming Dates:
December 2-17: I-Ready Diagnostic Window no iReady at home during this time
December 15-18: Spirit Week/Candy Cane Grams for sale
Monday 12/15- Matching Day
Tuesday 12/13- Crazy Hair Day
Wednesday 12/14-Color Day (first grade wears Orange)
Thursday 12/15- Festive Gear Day
December 18: Winter Party (information from your teacher)
December 19-January 6: Winter Break
iReady Mid-Year Diagnostic Testing:
Starting Tuesday, December 3, we will begin our mid-year iReady diagnostic testing for Reading and Math. It is crucial that each student does his or her best on the test. During this time, please ensure that your child is well rested and on time for school. We are goal setting with each student so each student is aware of their Stretch Growth Goal.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
December Reading Log: Due December 18.
Literacy:
UFLI Lesson 59 & 60: In Lesson 59 we will be reviewing VCe words that have already been taught. Examples are: mate, bike, stone, eve, tune, and mute. In Lesson 60 students will be taught the spelling pattern for the soft c sound /s/ _ce. Examples are: mice, price, race, and lace.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 4 Week 3: Stories have a narrator. Students will: Work collaboratively to create a class list of questions, participate in constructive conversation, following rules for discussion. Share ideas about the unit topic, “Stories Have a Narrator.” We ask the essential question: How do people create stories?
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 10/11: We will be finishing Lesson 10 this week and then beginning Lesson 11. In Lesson 11 students will learn to understand and solve addition and subtraction word problems up to 20.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: December - Inquirer
“We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry, and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.”
These students develop their natural curiosity.
They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning.
They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
How can parents help to develop students who are Inquirers at home?
Encourage areas of your child’s interest by visiting the library to borrow books that explore these topics.
Develop an understanding of the Internet. Work with your son or daughter when the Internet is being used and try to instill the understanding that some Internet sites are not reputable.
Model being an inquirer. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a problem or a question and seek out answers in front of your child.
December 1
Upcoming Dates:
December 1-4: RRE Book Fair Book Fair Homepage.
December 2-17: I-Ready Diagnostic Window no iReady at home during this time
December 5: Snuggly Read-a-thon (information from your teacher)
December 5: PTO Movie Night (5-7pm)
December 18: Winter Party (information to come)
December 19-January 6: Winter Break
iReady Mid-Year Diagnostic Testing:
Continuing this week is our mid-year iReady diagnostic testing for Reading and Math. It is crucial that each student does his or her best on the test. During this time, please ensure that your child is well rested and on time for school. We are goal setting with each student so each student is aware of their goal.
Important Information:
It is starting to get colder outside so please make sure to send your student to school with a warm jacket and dressed for the weather. When sending gloves, hats, jackets, and scarfs please try to have them labeled that way if they get misplaced we can easily locate the item.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
December Reading Log: Due December 18
Literacy:
UFLI Lessons 57 & 58: In lesson 57 students will review VCe words and introduce long e consonant e spelling rule: examples are: eve, theme, bike, stone, and tame. In lesson 58 students will be learning spelling patterns for long u u_e /ū/, /yū/: examples are: flute, mute, use, and tube.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 4 Week 2: Stories have a narrator. Students will: Work collaboratively to create a class list of questions, participate in constructive conversation, following rules for discussion. Share ideas about the unit topic, “Stories Have a Narrator.” We ask the essential question: How do people create stories?
Math:
Ready Math Lesson 10: Students will be working with double facts. They will use doubles facts to solve near doubles facts.
IB:
School-Wide I.B. Learner Profile of the Month: December - Inquirer
“We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry, and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.”
These students develop their natural curiosity.
They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning.
They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
How can parents help to develop students who are Inquirers at home?
Encourage areas of your child’s interest by visiting the library to borrow books that explore these topics.
Develop an understanding of the Internet. Work with your son or daughter when the Internet is being used and try to instill the understanding that some Internet sites are not reputable.
Model being an inquirer. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a problem or a question and seek out answers in front of your child.
November Newsletters
November Newsletters
Week of November 17
Upcoming Dates:
November 24-28: Thanksgiving Break
December 1-4: RRE Book Fair
December 5: Snuggly Read-a-thon (details coming soon)
December 5: PTO Movie Night
Important Information:
It is starting to get colder outside so please make sure to send your student to school with a warm jacket and dressed for the weather. When sending gloves, hats, jackets, and scarfs please try to have them labeled that way if they get misplaced we can easily locate the item.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
I-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 days of the week. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
November Reading Log: Due November 21
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics Lesson 55 & 56: In lesson 55 we will introduce the long vowel i consonant e spelling rule: examples are slide, kite, bike, and fine. Lesson 56 will introduce the long vowel o consonant e spelling rule: examples are those, close, bone, and note.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 4 Week 1: Stories have a narrator. Students will: Work collaboratively to create a class list of questions, participate in constructive conversation, following rules for discussion. Share ideas about the unit topic, “Stories Have a Narrator.”
We ask the essential question: How do people create stories?
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 9: We will continue with Lesson 9 where students will work on developing mental math strategies to subtract from a teen number. Students will break apart a number to get a ten, then use this strategy to subtract from a teen number.
IB:
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month: Communicator
In November, be on the lookout for Communicators.
Students who are Communicators express their ideas by speaking, drawing, and writing. They communicate through music, dance, and drama. Language is key to expressing themselves and they can communicate in more than one language. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others too. They can also communicate using mathematical language and symbols.
"To listen well is as powerful a means of communication and influence as to talk well." — John Marshall
How can parents help to develop students who are Communicators at home?
Encourage your child to stay in touch with relatives and friends who live in other countries by writing letters, using the phone, or sending an email.
When working on mathematics homework, encourage your child to explain his/her answer to you orally or by drawing a picture.
Ask your child thought-provoking questions and encourage them to discuss them with you.
For example:
What would you do if you were scared of someone at school?
Is there anything you cannot buy with money?
Should you get an allowance? Why or why not?
Work with your child to improve his/her listening skills. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others.
35 of the best communication books for children to promote communication in the classroom. LINK
Week of November 10
Upcoming Dates:
November 14: Night of the Rock Stars (5-7)
November 24-28: Thanksgiving Break
December 5: Family Movie Night
Important Information:
It is starting to get colder outside so please make sure to send your student to school with a warm jacket and dressed for the weather. When sending gloves, hats, jackets, and scarfs please try to have them labeled that way if they get misplaced we can easily locate the item.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade, we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 days of the week. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
November Reading Log: Due November 21
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics Lesson 53 & 54: In lesson 53 we will be reviewing digraphs previously taught. The digraphs will be /-ck/, /sh/, /th/ (voiced and unvoiced), /ch/, /wh/, /ph/,-ng /ŋ/, and -nk /ŋk/. Lesson 54 will introduce the long vowel a consonant e spelling rule: examples are cake, brake, bale, skate, and frame.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Benchmark Unit 3 Assessment in class.
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 8:
We finish and take our quiz for Lesson 8, and then start Lesson 9. Students will work on developing mental math strategies to subtract from a teen number. Students will break apart a number to get a ten, then use this strategy to subtract from a teen number.
IB:
Sharing the Planet - This week our lesson is called, “Why are polar bears white?” We will learn how animal camouflage helps prey and predators hide from one another.
This week, students were introduced to the idea that the natural world can provide insights for designing products to meet human needs. Students examined the structures of trees that keep them from blowing down in the wind, using their observations to design umbrellas that could stay up in a strong wind.
You can share another amazing story with your child of how living things can guide the design of man-made materials: the invention of Velcro! This video describes the structure of “hook and loop fasteners” and how the idea for Velcro came from looking closely at seeds, similar to how students’ ideas for improved umbrellas came from looking at trees.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month: Communicator
In November, be on the lookout for Communicators.
Students who are Communicators express their ideas by speaking, drawing, and writing. They communicate through music, dance, and drama. Language is key to expressing themselves and they can communicate in more than one language. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others too. They can also communicate using mathematical language and symbols.
"To listen well is as powerful a means of communication and influence as to talk well." — John Marshall
How can parents help to develop students who are Communicators at home?
Encourage your child to stay in touch with relatives and friends who live in other countries by writing letters, using the phone, or sending an email.
When working on mathematics homework, encourage your child to explain his/her answer to you orally or by drawing a picture.
Ask your child thought-provoking questions and encourage them to discuss them with you.
For example:
What would you do if you were scared of someone at school?
Is there anything you cannot buy with money?
Should you get an allowance? Why or why not?
Work with your child to improve his/her listening skills. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others.
35 of the best communication books for children to promote communication in the classroom. LINK
Week of November 3
Upcoming Dates:
November 3: Pajama Day
November 11: PTO Meeting (6-7 in Library)
November 14: Night of the Rock Stars (5-7pm)
November 24-28: Thanksgiving Break
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade, we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and i-Ready math lesson 4 days of the week. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
November Reading Log: Due November 21
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics Lesson 51 & 52: In lesson 51 we will be introducing the ng /ŋ/ spelling rule: examples are lung, wing, sang, and long.”
Our second spelling rule will be the nk /ŋk/: examples are “sank, rink, and trunk.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 3 Week 2: In our third unit, students will review being a responsible citizen. They will identify characteristics of good citizenship such as a belief in justice, truth, equality and responsibility. They will also identify ordinary people who exemplify good citizenship and ways students are good citizens in their community.
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 8:
We will take our Lesson 7 quiz at the beginning of the week and begin lesson 8. Students will break apart a number to make a ten. Students will learn how to add two numbers by breaking them apart and putting them together using the strategy of making a ten.
IB:
Sharing the Planet - This week our lesson is called, “Why are polar bears white?” We will learn how animal camouflage helps prey and predators hide from one another.
You can take Action: You can continue to support your child’s curiosity at home! At the end of our lesson, your child will be encouraged to go for a walk in nature to find some camouflaged animals. It is a challenge, but within your child’s reach. Parks are great places to look. One tip for this walk is to hold still and watch for movement among leaves (to find insects) or movement along the ground and trees (to find larger creatures).
Take a trip to your local library and check out some non-fiction animal books. Have those dinner conversations about how we can protect wildlife.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month: Communicator
In November, be on the lookout for Communicators.
Students who are Communicators express their ideas by speaking, drawing, and writing. They communicate through music, dance, and drama. Language is key to expressing themselves and they can communicate in more than one language. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others too. They can also communicate using mathematical language and symbols.
"To listen well is as powerful a means of communication and influence as to talk well." — John Marshall
How can parents help to develop students who are Communicators at home?
Encourage your child to stay in touch with relatives and friends who live in other countries by writing letters, using the phone, or sending an email.
When working on mathematics homework, encourage your child to explain his/her answer to you orally or by drawing a picture.
Ask your child thought-provoking questions and encourage them to discuss them with you.
For example:
What would you do if you were scared of someone at school?
Is there anything you cannot buy with money?
Should you get an allowance? Why or why not?
Work with your child to improve his/her listening skills. Being a good listener is an important part of communicating with others.
35 of the best communication books for children to promote communication in the classroom. LINK
October Newsletters
October Newsletters
Week of October 27
Upcoming Dates:
October 28: Picture Retakes (morning only)
October 30: In House Field Trip (info emailed by your child's teacher)
October 31: Fall Party (2:45-3:30)
November 24-28: Thanksgiving Break
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade, we ask that your student work on one i-Ready reading and i-Ready math lesson 4 days of the week for 10 minutes each. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night, no more than 3-5 minutes.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
October Reading Log: Due October 31
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 49 & 50. In lesson 49 we will be reviewing digraphs previously taught /sh/, voiced and unvoiced/th/, /ch/: examples are “ship, crush, that, thick, chap, and bench.” Our second spelling rule will be the /wh/ and /ph/ digraphs: examples are “when, whip, graph, and Phil.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 3 Week 2: In our third unit, students will review being a responsible citizen. They will identify characteristics of good citizenship such as a belief in justice, truth, equality and responsibility. They will also identify ordinary people who exemplify good citizenship and ways students are good citizens in their community.
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 7: Students will apply properties of addition to add three numbers. They will use number relationships to add three numbers more efficiently. We will also introduce doubles facts and review number partners for ten. These are both great strategies for adding three addends.
IB:
Sharing the Planet - We are learning about animals and their offspring, how they are similar and different. We will also learn about plants and animals and their external features that help them to survive.
This is an exciting planner to learn all about living things and our responsibility to protect animals and our Earth.
This week our lesson is called, “Why are polar bears white?” We will learn how animal camouflage helps prey and predators hide from one another.
You can take Action: You can continue to support your child’s curiosity at home! At the end of our lesson, your child will be encouraged to go for a walk in nature to find some camouflaged animals. It is a challenge, but within your child’s reach. Parks are great places to look. One tip for this walk is to hold still and watch for movement among leaves (to find insects) or movement along the ground and trees (to find larger creatures).
Take a trip to your local library and check out some non-fiction animal books. Have those dinner conversations about how we can protect wildlife.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Caring is our IB attribute for the month of October.
REMEMBER:
These students show empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service and act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to the environment.
Ways to develop caring students at home:
Model the caring behavior you would like to see in your child all the time. Your child has big eyes and ears and notices everything you do. Using kind words, helping people without being asked, and being an active listener all show your child that you care about people. Even a simple thing, like holding a door for someone, shows your child that you are aware of others around you and want to help them.
Think about how your family can get involved with community organizations.
*Be on the look-out all October long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Week of October 20
Upcoming Dates:
October 13-17: Fall Break
October 28: Picture Retakes (morning only)
October 31: Fall Celebration (2:45-3:30)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
October Reading Log: Due October 31
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 47 & 48. The first rule we will learn this week is the unvoiced /th/ digraph: examples are “bath, thin, thick, cloth.” Our second spelling rule will be the /ch/ digraph: examples are “chap, bench, check, and chin.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 3 Week 1: In our third unit, students will review being a responsible citizen. They will identify characteristics of good citizenship such as a belief in justice, truth, equality and responsibility. They will also identify ordinary people who exemplify good citizenship and ways students are good citizens in their community.
Math:
Ready Math: Our first lesson Unit 2, Lesson 6 is working on teen numbers. Students will put 10 ones together to make a ten. They will put a ten and some ones together to compose a teen number. They will also work on decomposing a teen number into a ten and some ones.
IB:
Sharing the Planet - We are learning about animals and their offspring, how they are similar and different. We will also learn about plants and animals and their external features that help them to survive.
This is an exciting planner to learn all about living things and our responsibility to protect animals and our Earth.
This week we learned about animals and how their different parts help them to survive. Our lesson was called, “Why do birds have beaks?” We did an activity to learn how the shape of a bird’s beak tells you something about what that particular bird eats.
You can take Action:You can continue to support your child’s curiosity at home! Any time you see a bird, whether on a walk or looking out the window, encourage your child to look and ask them what they think that bird might eat and why. If it’s possible, set up a bird feeder near your home. This will give you and your child frequent opportunities to observe birds together.
Take a trip to your local library and check out some non-fiction animal books. Have those dinner conversations about how we can protect wildlife.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Caring is our IB attribute for the month of October.
I can spread joy by being kind!
REMEMBER:
These students show empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service and act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to the environment.
Ways to develop caring students at home:
Model the caring behavior you would like to see in your child all the time. Your child has big eyes and ears and notices everything you do. Using kind words, helping people without being asked, and being an active listener all show your child that you care about people. Even a simple thing, like holding a door for someone, shows your child that you are aware of others around you and want to help them.
Think about how your family can get involved with community organizations.
*Be on the look-out all October long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Week of October 6
Upcoming Dates:
October 6-10: Anti-Bullying Week
October 8-9: Parent-Teacher Conferences
October 13-17: Fall Break
October 28: Picture Retakes (morning only)
October 31: Fall Celebration (2:45-3:30--details to be sent later)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
October Reading Log: Due October 31
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 45 & 46. The first rule we will learn this week is the /sh/ digraph: examples are “brush, dish, ship, shell.” Our second spelling rule will be the voiced /th/ digraph: examples are “this, those, them, and that.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 2 Week 3: In our second unit students will be introduced to the topic of characters in a story. They will be reminded that characters are the people and animals in the stories they read and hear. Students will meet and talk about many different kinds of characters in various stories over the next few weeks. .
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 6: We will complete our quiz for lesson 5 at the beginning of the week and then take our Unit 1 Assessment on Thursday and Friday.
IB Planner:
Sharing the Planet - We are learning about animals and their offspring, how they are similar and different. We will also learn about plants and animals and their external features that help them to survive.
This is an exciting planner to learn all about living things and our responsibility to protect animals and our Earth.
You can take Action:
Take a trip to your local library and check out some non-fiction animal books. Have those dinner conversations about how we can protect wildlife.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Caring is our IB attribute for the month of October.
REMEMBER:
These students show empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service and act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to the environment.
Ways to develop caring students at home:
Model the caring behavior you would like to see in your child all the time. Your child has big eyes and ears and notices everything you do. Using kind words, helping people without being asked, and being an active listener all show your child that you care about people. Even a simple thing, like holding a door for someone, shows your child that you are aware of others around you and want to help them.
Think about how your family can get involved with community organizations.
*Be on the look-out all October long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
September Newsletters
September Newsletters
Week of September 29
Upcoming Dates:
October 3: Run Prize Day
October 8-9: Parent Teacher Conferences (details from your student's teacher)
October 13-17: Fall Break
October 24: 🎃Monster Mash 5-7pm
Important Information:
Homework Bags/ Book Baggies are going home each week. Please take care of these and return them to school every day. You will find your child's Clever Badge on his/her book baggie (Trujillo and Shoemaker) or Take Home Folder (Youngberg). Please make sure to send your students book back to school each day.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Last week I attached your child's clever badge to their book bag and you can scan that to login in. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words each night.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
September Reading Log: After reading for 15 minutes a night have your student color in a leaf. On September 30th sign the sheet and send it back with your student.
Literacy:
UFLI Phonics: Lesson 43 & 44- Our first spelling pattern will focus on short vowels followed by double l; words like in “call, small, doll, troll, and pull” . The second spelling pattern will be the -ck rule: examples are “deck, trick, hack, puck, and block.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 2 Week 2: In our second unit students will be introduced to the topic of characters in a story. They will be reminded that characters are the people and animals in the stories they read and hear. Students will meet and talk about many different kinds of characters in various stories over the next few weeks .
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 5: We will start lesson 5 in this lesson, students will understand and solve addition and subtraction word problems up to 10.
IB:
Sharing the Planet - We are learning about animals and their offspring, how they are similar and different. We will also learn about plants and animals and their external features that help them to survive.
This is an exciting planner to learn all about living things and our responsibility to protect animals and our Earth.
You can take Action:
Take a trip to your local library and check out some non-fiction animal books. Have those dinner conversations about how we can protect wildlife.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month of September.
REMEMBER:
These students understand the importance of balancing different aspects of their lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for themselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and within the world in which they live.
*Be on the look-out all September long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Picture Books about Being Well-Balanced and Harmonious
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month of October.
REMEMBER:
These students show empathy, compassion, and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service and act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to the environment.
Ways to develop caring students at home:
Model the caring behavior you would like to see in your child all the time. Your child has big eyes and ears and notices everything you do. Using kind words, helping people without being asked, and being an active listener all show your child that you care about people. Even a simple thing, like holding a door for someone, shows your child that you are aware of others around you and want to help them.
Think about how your family can get involved with community organizations.
*Be on the look-out all October long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Week of September 22
Upcoming Dates:
September 22: Teacher work day (no school)
September 26: Run Donations are due
October 3: Run Prize Day
October 6-10: Anti-Bullying Week
October 7: PTO Meeting 6pm (Library)
October 8-9: Parent Teacher Conferences (details to follow)
October 13-17: Fall Break
Important Information:
Homework Bags/ Book Baggies are going home each week. Please take care of these and return them to school every day. You will find your child's Clever Badge on his/her book baggie (Trujillo and Shoemaker) or Take Home Folder (Youngberg).
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Last week I attached your child's clever badge to their book bag and you can scan that to login in. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
Sight Words: These are in your students book bags. Please practice these words no more than 3-5 minutes each night.
Just Right Books: Your child should be reading through their book from their book baggie each night.
September Reading Log: After reading for 15 minutes a night, have your student color in a leaf. On September 30th sign the sheet and send it back with your student.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lesson 41 & 42- Our first spelling pattern will focus on short vowel review; Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like in “cat, hen, rut, bit, and lot” . The second spelling pattern will be the F,L,S,Z rule: examples are “buzz, will, pass, and stuff.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 2 Week 1: In our second unit students will be introduced to the topic of characters in a story. They will be reminded that characters are the people and animals in the stories they read and hear. Students will meet and talk about many different kinds of characters in various stories over the next few weeks.
.
Math:
Ready Math: Lesson 4 & 5: We will have our quiz for lesson 4 and then start lesson 5. In lesson 5, students will understand and solve addition and subtraction word problems up to 10.
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month of September.
These students understand the importance of balancing different aspects of their lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for themselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and within the world in which they live.
*Be on the look-out all September long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Picture Books about Being Well-Balanced and Harmonious
Week of September 15
Upcoming Dates:
September 19: Rock Ridge Run (teachers will give shirts out on Friday)
September 22: Teacher work day (no school)
October 8 & 9: Parent Teacher Conferences (details to follow)
September 26: Rock Ridge Run Donations Due
Important Information:
Homework Bags/ Book Baggies are going home this week. Please take care of these and return them to school every day. You will find your child's Clever Badge on his/her book baggie (Trujillo and Shoemaker) or Take Home Folder (Youngberg).
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
i-Ready: In 1st grade we ask that your student work on 1 i-Ready reading and 1 i-Ready math lesson 4 nights a week. Last week I attached your child's clever badge to their book bag and you can scan that to login in. Each of the lessons will be at your student’s own level so please have them try their best to work through them independently. To find more help on getting to Clever go to Resources->I-Ready
September Reading Log: For every 15 minutes your student reads they should color in 1 . On September 30 please send it back signed to school with your student.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lesson 39 & 40- Our first spelling pattern will focus on short u; Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like in “cut, hub, and bus” . The second spelling pattern will be short e: Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like “leg, bet, and hen.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 1 Week 3- In our first unit we will be learning all about living things and how they change and grow.
Math:
Ready: Lesson 3/4: We will have the quiz for Lesson 3 this week, then we will begin Lesson 4. In Lesson 4, students will use known addition problems to help them subtract.
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month
of September.
REMEMBER:
These students understand the importance of balancing different aspects of their lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for themselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and within the world in which they live.
*Be on the look-out all September long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Picture Books about Being Well-Balanced and Harmonious
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
Hispanic Heritage Month in 2025 runs from September 15 to October 15, with the theme "Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future". For elementary students, you can honor this month by exploring the rich histories and cultures of people from Spain, Central America, South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean through age-appropriate activities, focusing on contributions to art, music, science, and community.
Book List:
"Abuela" by Arthur Dorros
A sweet story about a girl and her grandmother exploring New York City while sharing Spanish words and cultural moments."My Name is Celia / Me llamo Celia" by Monica Brown
A bilingual biography of the famous Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz, celebrating her life and music."Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story" by Kevin Noble Maillard
Though focused on Native American heritage, it’s a great multicultural read connecting food and tradition relevant to many Hispanic communities too."Waiting for the Biblioburro" by Monica Brown
A story inspired by the real-life librarian who brings books to rural Colombian children on donkeys."Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match / Marisol McDonald no combina" by Monica Brown
Celebrates cultural identity and diversity through a spirited Peruvian-American girl."César: ¡Sí, Se Puede! Yes, We Can!" by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand
A poetic biography of labor leader César Chávez, emphasizing perseverance and justice."Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You" by Sonia Sotomayor
Written by the Supreme Court Justice, this book encourages children to embrace differences and ask questions."Round Is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes" by Roseanne Greenfield Thong
A colorful introduction to shapes through Latino culture and food.
Source
What it offers / Why it’s useful
National Museum of the American Latino – Hispanic Heritage Month Resources
Virtual exhibits, bilingual materials, stories of Latino achievement, background info, and classroom‐friendly guides. (National Museum of the American Latino)
MAEC, Inc. – Hispanic Heritage Month Resources
A curated collection of books, videos, lesson plans and family/student‐friendly materials. (MAEC)
We Are Teachers – 24 Fun Activities To Honor Hispanic Heritage Month
Printables, crafts, cooking, country studies, music/art ideas. Good for K‐5. (We Are Teachers)
Flocabulary – Activities and lessons to celebrate in the classroom
Videos + lessons about individual figures, traditions, music, arts. Engaging multimedia. (The Flocabulary Blog)
Education Northwest – Latinx Heritage Month Teaching Resources to Use All Year Long
Lessons that are usable year‐round, not just during the Month; includes art, literature, history, civil rights. (Education Northwest)
Waterford – 15 Classroom Activities, Books, and Historical Figures
Good mix of book suggestions, craft ideas, historical figures to spotlight, bite‐size daily lessons. (Waterford.org)
Week of September 8
Upcoming Dates:
September 9: 👟Rock Ridge Run Kickoff
September 19: 👟Rock Ridge Run
September 22: Teacher work day (no school)
Important Information:
Each day your student will bring home a take home folder. It will have important information as well as classwork. Please make sure to check the folder each day and return it each morning to school.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Ms. Youngberg: Spanish
Homework:
September Reading Log: After reading for 15 minutes a night have your student color in a leaf. On September 30th sign the sheet and send it back with your student.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lesson 36 & 37- Our first spelling pattern will be short i: Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like “sip, lip, and hit.” Our second spelling pattern will focus on short o; Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like in “hop”, “lot” and “dot”. Here is the link to the UFLI Parent Resource Hub if you would like more information on how to help your child with reading.
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 1 Week 2- In our first unit we will be learning all about living things and how they change and grow.
Math:
iReady: Lesson 2 & 3: We will finish lesson 2 and take our quiz at the beginning of the week and start Unit 1 lesson 3 after. Students will count on to add and count back to subtract.
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month of September.
REMEMBER:
These students understand the importance of balancing different aspects of their lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for themselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and within the world in which they live.
*Be on the look-out all September long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Picture Books about Being Well-Balanced and Harmonious
Week of September 1
Upcoming Dates:
September 1: Labor Day (no school)
September 19: Rock Ridge Run
Important Information:
Birthday Treat Policy:
Rock Ridge Elementary Birthday Treat Policy
Due to the high number of students with severe food allergies and special dietary concerns and Rock Ridge’s emphasis on health and wellness, birthday celebrations may not include food. Please save birthday cakes and cupcakes for your home celebration.
We realize many parents like to do something special in school for their child’s birthday. We’d like to suggest you consider donating a small gift to your child’s classroom. This donation from your child might be an educational game, a book for the class library, a ball to be used on the playground, or a pencil for each student in the room. Classroom teachers also have a variety of activities for birthday celebrations designed to make birthday children feel special.
Another option is to donate a book to the library. Rock Ridge will place inside the book a recognition note of who donated the book and the date. Check with Laura Keller lkeller@dcsdk12.org more details.
All birthdays will be announced daily. In addition, children will receive a birthday gift from the office.
Also, if your child has a summer birthday, we will celebrate it sometime in May. Please DO NOT send birthday invitations to school with your child. This often causes hurt feelings if not all students are invited.
i-Ready Diagnostic: We will continue our beginning of year I-Ready Diagnostics. Please ensure that your student is on time for school, well rested, and has had a good breakfast. If your child does not have a pair of headphones at school, please send them with your student on Monday as they will need them for the diagnostic.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Music
Mrs. Trujillo: Spanish
Ms. Youngberg: Art
Homework:
September Reading Log: For every 15 minutes your student reads they should color in 1 . On September 30 please send it back signed to school with your student.
Literacy:
UFLI: Lesson 35 and 36- Our first spelling pattern will focus on short a; Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like in “cap”, “man” and “sat”. The second spelling pattern will be short i: Consonant Vowel Consonant (CVC) words like “sip, lip, and hit.”
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Unit 1 Week 1- In our first unit we will be learning all about living things and how they change and grow.
Math:
iReady: Lesson 2: This week students will be working on Unit 1 lesson 2. Students will solve word problems that involve adding or subtracting numbers up to 10 to solve word problems
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
School-wide I.B. Learner Profile of the month:
Balanced is our IB attribute for the month of September.
BALANCED is our IB Learner Attribute for the month of September.
REMEMBER:
These students understand the importance of balancing different aspects of their lives—intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for themselves and others. They recognize their interdependence with other people and within the world in which they live.
*Be on the look-out all September long for outstanding examples of the IB PYP Learner Profile Trait*
Picture Books about Being Well-Balanced and Harmonious
August Newsletters
August Newsletters
Week of August 25
Take Home Folder:
Each day your student will bring home a take home folder. It will have important information as well as classwork. Please make sure to check the folder each day and return it each morning to school.
Breakfast:
If your student is getting breakfast please take them to the cafeteria/recess doors and drop them off. Students will not be sent to the cafeteria from the classroom.
Important Information:
i-Ready Diagnostic: Our beginning of year i-Ready diagnostic will start on Tuesday, August 26. Please ensure that your student is on time for school, well rested, and has had a good breakfast. If your child does not have a pair of headphones at school please send them with your student on Monday as they will need them for the diagnostic.
Upcoming Dates:
August 26: Hearing and Vision
August 27: Picture Day
August 29: National College Colors Day
September 1: Labor Day (No School)
September 19: RRE Run
September 22: No School (PD Day)
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Spanish
Mrs. Trujillo: Art
Ms. Youngberg: Music
Homework:
August Reading Log: For every 15 minutes your student reads they should color in 1 apple. On August 30 please send it signed, back to school with your student.
Literacy:
Phonics: UFLI Launch
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Launch
Math:
iReady: Lesson 1: Number Partners for 10. Identify number partners for 10. Find the missing number partners for 10 and connect equations to models of number partners for 10.
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
Week of August 18
Upcoming Dates:
August 18-22: No Bus
August 19: PTO Meeting (In library 6-7)
August 21: Back to School BBQ (5:00-7:00)
August 22: All About Me Bags Due
August 26: Hearing and Vision Screening
August 27: Picture Day
Homework:
All About Me Bags-This information is coming home in your students take home folder. Please send it back to school next Friday.
Specials:
Mrs. Shoemaker: Art
Mrs. Trujillo: Music
Mrs. Youngberg: Spanish
Literacy:
Phonics: UFLI Launch
Benchmark Readers Workshop: Launch
Math:
iReady: Launch
IB:
Where We Are in Place and Time - We are learning about what it means to be a responsible citizen. Have those dinner conversations about what good citizens do.
PE Schedule
PE Schedule
This year our PE schedule looks different. Your student will have PE every 3 days! Below is the schedule for March. If you have any questions please reach out to your students teacher. First grade has PE from 2:45-3:25.
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